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Vampire Squid Genome Reveals Secrets of Cephalopod Evolution

12/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The vampire squid genome is the largest known cephalopod genome, exceeding 11 billion base pairs.
The data suggest the common ancestor of octopuses and squids was more squid-like than previously thought.
The vampire squid, though an octopus, retains squid-like genetic features as a "genomic living fossil."
Researchers will explore the implications for cephalopod evolution.

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Story summary

The vampire squid genome is the largest known cephalopod genome, exceeding 11 billion base pairs.
The data suggest the common ancestor of octopuses and squids was more squid-like than previously thought.
The vampire squid, though an octopus, retains squid-like genetic features as a "genomic living fossil."
Researchers will explore the implications for cephalopod evolution.